Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to picking the right mortgage lender. I’m Jen, a licensed mortgage lender in 48 states, and my team is one of the top purchase teams in America. Every month, we review hundreds of loan estimates and deal with lenders who either work for the client—or for someone else entirely. Here’s what every homebuyer, especially first-time homebuyers, needs to know.

Understanding Your Loan Estimate

A loan estimate is your roadmap to mortgage costs, including:

• Interest rates
• Closing costs
• Monthly payments

But just because a rate looks good online doesn’t mean it is. Builder lenders, realtor lenders, and other affiliated lenders may inflate fees or offset credits, making your “great deal” much more expensive.

Tips for reviewing your loan estimate:

1. Check rates and fees carefully.
2. Verify that builder credits actually save money.
3. Have an independent expert review it.

An expert review can save you thousands and ensure your lender is working for you, not the builder or agent.

Builder Lender vs. Independent Lender

Many homebuyers fall into the trap of using a builder lender. Here’s what you need to know:

• Builder lenders work for the builder, not you.
• They often advertise credits toward closing costs but increase rates and fees to offset them.
• Responsiveness and accountability are often poor.

An independent lender, by contrast, works for your interests. They review rates across multiple lenders, explain costs, and provide a strategy that maximizes savings for you—not a builder.

Realtor-Recommended Lenders: What to Watch For

Some real estate agents push buyers toward a specific lender. While most do it with good intentions, some are influenced by kickbacks, marketing perks, or other incentives.

Warning signs:

• Your agent emphasizes “my lender” without showing other options.
• You hear about perks or referral payments from the lender to the agent.
• Rates and fees are higher than what independent lenders offer.

A trustworthy mortgage lender works for you, explains fees, and ensures all credits and offers truly benefit the buyer.

Real-Life Example: Why Lender Choice Matters

We once had a client buying a home with black mold. The real estate agent’s lender would have closed the deal without proper remediation, putting the client’s health at risk. My team requires air quality tests and full remediation before closing, because we work for the buyer, not the agent.

Your lender should advocate for your safety, financial interests, and peace of mind.

How to Find a Mortgage Lender Who Works for You

Here’s your homebuyer checklist for selecting a lender:

1. Review your loan estimate carefully – check rates, fees, and credits.
2. Avoid builder lenders unless verified by an independent expert.
3. Watch for realtor-lender conflicts – ensure your agent isn’t steering you for perks.
4. Check responsiveness – your lender should answer calls or texts quickly.
5. Choose an independent, licensed mortgage lender – one who works for you, not someone else’s paycheck.

Why Choosing the Right Lender Saves Money and Stress

Your lender is your advocate in one of the biggest financial transactions of your life. Choosing a lender who works for someone else—whether it’s a builder or a realtor—can cost you thousands, or worse, compromise your safety and deal integrity.

I review loan estimates nationwide, help buyers get pre-approved, and work to ensure every client gets the best deal possible. No kickbacks. No conflicts. Just mortgage expertise for you.

Questions? Call me at (786) 933-2077 or book your consultation today  https://calendly.com/jennifer-beeston

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